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Frock Options

Sexy, slinky sundresses may be timeless, but they’re the last thing you want to spend real money on – sweat, smoke, and spilled margaritas are likely to wreck them after a few nights out. Luckily, some of this summer’s splashiest choices are almost disposable – with prices as low as $25, they’re as easy to toss as they are to love.

Strappy styles are warm-weather staples. On weekends, you’ll live in H&M’s classic slipdress with dainty ruffles at the neck ($25). At night, try shiny fabrics with big prints. Synthetics stand in for silk at a fraction of the price: We adore Madison’s psychedelic blue one ($26 at Madison – our favorite new source for inexpensive, trendy clothes) and a sophisticated paisley from Warehouse ($39.99). EXPRESS’s silk version has a sexy asymmetrical hem and an of-the-moment abstract floral print ($58).

For retro flair – think Catskills 1962 – we love halter-neck dresses, even if they don’t accommodate bra straps. Try a graphic-printed rayon style with a sharp, tie-side neckline from Zara for the office ($45) and pack XOXO’s sexy Hawaiian-print number for the beach ($48).